The church, as the body of Christ, has been divinely mandated to advance God’s Kingdom by making disciples of all nations and equipping them for spiritual growth. It serves as a gateway, drawing the lost into God’s redemptive plan through the proclamation of the Gospel and the transformative power of Jesus Christ. Yet, while many enter through the ‘front door’ of salvation, some silently slip away, a phenomenon often termed “exiting through the back door.” Whether new converts, long-time attendees, or believers struggling in their faith, their unnoticed departure weakens the church’s witness and hinders its mission.
Jesus, in Matthew 18:12-14, exemplifies the heart of a shepherd who leaves the ninety-nine to seek the one lost sheep. This illustrates the responsibility of church leaders to shepherd their congregations and actively pursue those who wander, ensuring no one is neglected. Unfortunately, in some local churches, membership rolls far exceed regular attendance, with little effort to reclaim those who have stopped fellowshipping. A church that allows its ‘back door’ to remain open cannot grow effectively or positively impact God’s Kingdom. This presentation highlights key reasons churches lose members through the ‘back door’ and offers practical strategies for retention.
Reasons for the Silent Exodus
1. Unmet Expectations
Many individuals, especially new converts, join the church with hopes of receiving not only spiritual nourishment but also practical support during difficult times. When the church fails to demonstrate compassion and offer tangible assistance, members may feel abandoned and see no reason to stay. The early church in Acts 2:44-45 modelled a spirit of communal care, ensuring no one lacked. A church that neglects the physical needs of its members risks discouragement and disillusionment, causing people to withdraw.
2. Unwelcoming Environment
First-time visitors and new converts are less likely to remain in a church where they encounter a cold or cliquish atmosphere, lacking genuine fellowship. Additionally, believers endowed with spiritual gifts and talents may seek fulfillment elsewhere if they are not given opportunities to serve. 1 Corinthians 12:7 teaches that every believer is gifted for the common good, and churches that fail to harness these gifts limit their potential for growth and engagement.
3. Unresolved Conflicts and Perceived Injustice
Disputes within the congregation or between members and church leadership, if poorly handled, can breed resentment and division. Scripture calls for wisdom that is peaceable and impartial (James 3:17), but unresolved grievances may push individuals away. Favouritism and unequal treatment also contribute to alienation, making members feel undervalued. Churches must reflect Galatians 3:28, which affirms unity in Christ without discrimination.
4. Spiritual Warfare and Worldly Temptations
Trials, persecutions, and the allure of worldly pleasures can cause some believers to fall away. In Matthew 13:20-22, Jesus warns that afflictions and the deceitfulness of riches can lead people astray. Without firm discipleship, prayer support, and accountability, members may drift away. Additionally, weak biblical foundations make believers susceptible to false teachings (Ephesians 4:14), leading to doctrinal instability.
Strategies for Strengthening Member Retention
1. Establishing a Strong Welfare System
Churches must intentionally care for members’ physical and emotional needs, reflecting Christ’s love in practical ways. A nurturing, family-like church inspires commitment and loyalty.
2. Encouraging the Use of Spiritual Gifts
Each believer has received a spiritual gift (Romans 12:6-8) that should be nurtured and deployed within the church. Leaders must identify and cultivate these gifts, ensuring active participation. When individuals feel valued, they are less likely to seek fulfillment elsewhere.
3. Implementing an Effective Follow-Up System
A dedicated team should track attendance and reach out to absent members via phone calls, messages, or personal visits. These gestures demonstrate concern and can rekindle a believer’s connection to the body of Christ.
4. Cultivating a Warm and Inclusive Environment
Churches must prioritise hospitality through mentorship programmes, small groups, and active engagement, helping newcomers feel at home in the church family.
5. Strengthening Discipleship and Biblical Teaching
Structured teachings, Bible studies, new converts’ classes, and home cell groups provide foundational growth that prevents deception and apostasy (2 Timothy 2:2). Mature believers are less likely to stray.
6. Prioritising Corporate and Intercessory Prayer
Spiritual battles often underpin a believer’s departure, making fervent prayer indispensable (James 5:16). A church steeped in prayer provides spiritual covering, sustaining members through trials.
Conclusion
For the church to fulfill its divine commission, it must not only win souls but also nurture and retain them. Closing the ‘back door’ requires intentional love, discipleship, and vigilant shepherding. By addressing the root causes of member attrition and implementing effective retention strategies, the church can thrive as a spiritual family where no one is lost. Leaders must emulate the Good Shepherd, who seeks the lost and rejoices over their return. Through faithful stewardship, the church will grow stronger, advancing God’s Kingdom on earth.
Written by Elder Richmond Judah Ayitey Ayee (National Evangelism Leader, CoP-China)
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